Joint excursion, handle velocity, and applied force: a biomechanical analysis of ergonometric rowing

Rowers may sacrifice on-water technique during ergonometric training in an attempt to increase stroke output. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify characteristics of ergonometric rowing technique that could be potentially detrimental to an effective and safe on-water performance. Joint excursion, handle velocity, and applied force were measured in 44 athletes while they performed a 2500 meter race on an instrumented ergometer. Results on four subjects are presented here. Their performance is compared to that of a Barcelona Olympic and World champion rower with 12 years of experience to illustrate how athletes deviate from standard on-water technique. Kinematic data showed knee joint oscillations and out-of-phase hip and knee joint reversals. Horizontal handle velocity curves indicated that higher stroke rates were achieved by a decrease in recovery time. Vertical handle velocity curves exhibited bi-directional variations. The largest amplitude occurred at the end of the drive phase during an upward displacement of the handle that was associated with a jerk in the applied force. Force-time curves at different stroke rates showed greater variability in the initial portion of the drive phase. Perpetuation of these technique deviations may be detrimental to on-water performance. Biomechanical analyses may allow coaches to better monitor technique during ergonometric training.